Skip to main content
Ch. 4 - Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Blitzer - College Algebra 8th Edition
Blitzer8th EditionCollege AlgebraISBN: 9780136970514Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 5, Problem 55

Solve each logarithmic equation in Exercises 49–92. Be sure to reject any value of x that is not in the domain of the original logarithmic expressions. Give the exact answer. Then, where necessary, use a calculator to obtain a decimal approximation, correct to two decimal places, for the solution. log2(x+25)=4

Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the given logarithmic equation: \(\log_{2}(x + 25) = 4\).
Recall the definition of logarithm: \(\log_{b}(A) = C\) means \(b^{C} = A\). Apply this to rewrite the equation as \(2^{4} = x + 25\).
Calculate \$2^{4}\( (without final numeric evaluation here) and set up the equation \)x + 25 = 2^{4}$.
Solve for \(x\) by isolating it: \(x = 2^{4} - 25\).
Check the domain restriction for the logarithm: the argument \(x + 25\) must be greater than 0, so ensure \(x + 25 > 0\) and verify that your solution satisfies this condition.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
1m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Properties of Logarithms

Understanding the basic properties of logarithms, such as the definition log_b(a) = c means b^c = a, is essential. This allows you to rewrite logarithmic equations in exponential form to solve for the variable.
Recommended video:
5:36
Change of Base Property

Domain of Logarithmic Functions

The domain of a logarithmic function log_b(x) requires that the argument x be positive. When solving equations, it is crucial to check that solutions do not make the argument of any logarithm zero or negative, as these are not valid.
Recommended video:
5:26
Graphs of Logarithmic Functions

Exact and Approximate Solutions

After finding the exact solution to a logarithmic equation, it is often necessary to provide a decimal approximation. Using a calculator to round the solution to a specified number of decimal places helps interpret and communicate the result clearly.
Recommended video:
4:20
Graph Hyperbolas at the Origin